State expands drought-hit list to 226 taluks

Bengaluru: The government has added nine more taluks to the list of drought-affected areas, taking the total number of drought-hit taluks in the state to 226 from the earlier 217.

The latest decision was taken following scientific assessments and field inspections to evaluate the prevailing drought conditions. Among the newly included areas, Sakleshpur in Hassan district has been classified as severely drought-affected, while eight other taluks have been categorised as moderately affected.

The eight taluks classified as moderately drought-hit are Khanapur in Belagavi district; Hosanagar and Sagar in Shivamogga district; Puttur, Moodubidire and Mulki in Dakshina Kannada district; and Joida and Dandeli in Uttara Kannada district.The government is continuing to monitor drought conditions in other parts of Karnataka. More taluks could be included in the list if subsequent assessments indicate that they meet the prescribed criteria.

Deputy Chief Minister and Revenue Minister G. Parameshwara said the government was taking necessary measures to address the drought situation and protect the interests of farmers facing difficulties. He said the government had earlier declared 217 taluks drought-affected and had now issued an order adding nine more areas, raising the total to 226. Protecting farmers’ livelihoods, providing appropriate compensation for crop losses and safeguarding the interests of rural communities remain the government’s priorities, Parameshwara said. The expansion of the drought-hit list comes amid concerns over inadequate rainfall and its potential impact on agricultural activities. Farmers in several districts have been facing uncertainty over crop selection and sowing for the rabi season because of the rainfall deficit.

The classification of affected taluks is important for determining the assistance and relief measures that may be made available to farmers and other affected communities under applicable government provisions.

With drought conditions continuing to be assessed across the state, the government is expected to review the situation based on updated field reports and the prescribed scientific parameters.

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